Altare's 2000 Barolo is fabulous. Round, sweet and caressing on the palate, the Barolo impresses for its impeccable balance, and fresh, vibrant fruit. There is not a hint of oxidation or French oak in this impeccable Barolo. The 2000 is just approaching the early part of what looks to be a very long drinking window.

Medium red. Expressive, woodsy aromas of mocha, brown spices, dried flowers, marzipan and underbrush. Sweet, supple and impressively concentrated for a Barolo normale, with rather forward red berry and tobacco flavors. No lack of balancing acidity. Resounding finish features very good length and smooth tannins.

The 2000 Barolo, with a spicy, elegant, anisette-laced nose and a fine-grained body which is quite long and sustained, will disappoint no one looking for high class Nebbiolo. Drink: 2005-2016. A Marc de Grazia Selection, various American importers, including Michael Skurnik, Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300, Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700, and Estate Wines, Ltd., San Rafael, CA; tel. (415) 492-9411